Peruvian Lily (Alstroemeria) plant photo (Alstroemeria aurea)
Photo: nitsuga74 · CC BY 4.0
perennial
Updated May 2026·South America (Andes mountains)

Peruvian Lily (Alstroemeria)

Alstroemeria aurea

Peruvian lily flowers can last 2+ weeks in a vase — longer than any other cut flower commercially available — because the cells in their petals genuinely live on after harvest, continuing to absorb water and produce energy.

USDA Zones
7-10
Sun
full sun
Water
moderate
Mature Size
2-3 ft tall, 12-18 in wide
Growth Rate
moderate
Family
Alstroemeriaceae
Care guide

How to care for peruvian lily (alstroemeria)

When harvesting for vases, PULL the stem instead of cutting — pulling stimulates fresh stem production while cutting leaves a stub that withers. Mulch heavily in fall in zone 7; below zone 7, treat as a tender perennial.

Garden uses & design ideas

Best garden use

Place it in repeatable drifts through borders so the color and texture carry the eye instead of appearing as a one-off plant.

Pair it with

Roses, Salvia, Lavender make easy companion choices because they share similar light, water, or visual texture needs.

Layout tip

Match it with full sun exposure, place it in a moderate-water bed where soil can stay evenly damp but not soggy, and check USDA zones 7-10 before planting. Use the garden planner to test spacing around its mature size: 2-3 ft tall, 12-18 in wide.

Gardener note — Double-check local invasive, edible, and toxicity guidance with your county extension office before planting around pets, children, or natural areas.

Companion plants

Peruvian Lily (Alstroemeria) grows well alongside these — similar light, water, and texture needs.

RosesSalviaLavender

Common pests & problems

essentially pest-free; deer-resistant

Where it grows best

Native to South America (Andes mountains); thrives in USDA hardiness zones 7-10.

Frequently asked about peruvian lily (alstroemeria)

What USDA zones does Peruvian Lily (Alstroemeria) grow in?+

Peruvian Lily (Alstroemeria) is hardy in USDA zones 7-10. Outside these zones, it can usually be grown indoors or as a seasonal annual.

How much sun does Peruvian Lily (Alstroemeria) need?+

Peruvian Lily (Alstroemeria) prefers full sun. Place it where it gets that light most of the day for best growth and flowering.

How often should I water Peruvian Lily (Alstroemeria)?+

Peruvian Lily (Alstroemeria) has moderate water needs. Keep soil consistently moist but not soggy. When harvesting for vases, PULL the stem instead of cutting — pulling stimulates fresh stem production while cutting leaves a stub that withers. Mulch heavily in fall in zone 7; below zone 7, treat as a tender perennial.

How big does Peruvian Lily (Alstroemeria) get?+

Peruvian Lily (Alstroemeria) reaches a mature size of 2-3 ft tall, 12-18 in wide. Growth rate is moderate, so plan spacing accordingly when planting.

What plants grow well with Peruvian Lily (Alstroemeria)?+

Peruvian Lily (Alstroemeria) pairs well with Roses, Salvia, Lavender. These companions share similar care requirements and don't compete aggressively for resources.

What pests affect Peruvian Lily (Alstroemeria)?+

Common Peruvian Lily (Alstroemeria) problems include essentially pest-free; deer-resistant. Catching early signs in routine inspection prevents most damage.

When does Peruvian Lily (Alstroemeria) bloom?+

Peruvian Lily (Alstroemeria) blooms in late spring through summer in pink, orange, yellow, red, lavender, bicolour. Deadheading spent flowers (where applicable) often encourages a longer bloom window.

✦ Free 3D garden designer

Design a garden with peruvian lily (alstroemeria) in minutes

Drag plants into a 3D space, walk through it, or upload a photo and let AI redesign it. Test spacing around its mature size before you plant.

More plants to design with

Pair well with peruvian lily (alstroemeria) or suit the same spot.

All 200 plants →

Not sure what to plant where?

Answer 3 quick questions and get a free plant & design plan matched to your space, light, and style.

Get your free garden plan →